By Kathy Sisk
I often write about agent training; however, once the initial training is completed, the next step is to ensure that the floor manager continues the process. Here are some tips for proper agent coaching. This will motivate agents and help them adhere to what they’ve learned, as well as integrating accountability into the process.
An Effective Coach Should Know How to:
- Provide on-the-spot personal attention on a regular basis
- Recognize other people’s needs for coaching and counseling
- Coach on a consistent basis
- Schedule time each week to conduct hands-on assessments
- Hold agents accountable for improved performance
- Address performance or attitude issues in a timely manner
- Be patient, offer encouraging words, and always bring out the best in agents prior to critiquing them
- Know what to listen for, how to recognize when the correct skills are exhibited, and how to give constructive feedback
- Use professional language
- Learn how to resolve conflicts and develop the ability to negotiate
Motivational Techniques to Get Agents Producing:
- Give a specific goal or target to reach each day. For example, for outbound calling you could say: “Today I would like you to preselect fifty potential contacts you will make tomorrow.”
- Get your agents to meet at least one daily requirement each day.
- Don’t force agents or make threats—such as job security—to get them motivated to do their best.
- Always treat your agents professionally.
In the next issue, we’ll talk about how to develop a departmental motivation plan.
Kathy Sisk Enterprises Inc. has forty years of experience providing call center setup, reengineering, assessments, training, script development, and project management services to centers globally.